When it comes to enhancing your home entertainment experience, a high-quality soundbar can make all the difference. Two of the most popular options on the market are the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900. Both models are designed to provide premium sound quality and sleek designs, but what sets them apart? In this article, we’ll delve into the key differences between these two soundbars, helping you make an informed decision for your audio needs.
Design and Build Quality
At first glance, the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900 appear to share a similar design language. Both models feature a sleek, minimalist aesthetic that will complement any living room décor. However, upon closer inspection, some notable differences emerge.
The Bose Smart Soundbar 700 measures in at 2.25 inches high, 4.25 inches deep, and 43 inches wide, making it a great option for smaller to medium-sized rooms. Weighing in at 10.5 pounds, it’s also relatively lightweight and easy to maneuver.
In contrast, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 is slightly larger, measuring 2.5 inches high, 5.25 inches deep, and 48 inches wide. It’s also heavier, weighing in at 13.5 pounds. While it’s still a sleek and compact design, the 900 is better suited for larger rooms or those with more ample space.
Both soundbars feature a glass top and a wraparound metal grille that adds a touch of sophistication. However, the 900 takes it a step further with a more premium glass top that gives it a slightly more luxurious feel.
Remote Control and Voice Assistant Integration
One of the key differences between the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900 lies in their remote control and voice assistant integration.
The Bose Smart Soundbar 700 comes with a simple, yet functional remote control that allows you to adjust volume, play/pause, and skip tracks. While it’s a solid remote, it lacks some of the more advanced features found on the 900’s remote.
The Bose Smart Soundbar 900, on the other hand, includes a more advanced remote control with additional features like a microphone mute button, playback controls, and even a button dedicated to activating Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. This added functionality makes it easier to control your soundbar and access your favorite voice assistants.
Speaking of voice assistants, both soundbars are compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. However, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 takes it a step further with built-in microphones, allowing for hands-free control and smart home integration.
Sound Quality and Performance
When it comes to sound quality, both the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900 deliver exceptional performance. However, there are some key differences that set them apart.
The Bose Smart Soundbar 700 features a 3.0-channel system with dedicated left, center, and right channels. It also includes proprietary technologies like Bose’s PhaseGuide technology, which helps to separate sound and enhance dialogue clarity. The result is a balanced sound that’s perfect for TV shows, movies, and music.
The Bose Smart Soundbar 900, on the other hand, boasts a more advanced 4.0-channel system with dedicated left, center, right, and height channels. This added channel helps to create a more immersive experience, with sound that seems to come from above and around you. The 900 also features Bose’s proprietary ADAPTiQ technology, which automatically adjusts the sound to match your room’s acoustics.
In terms of bass response, the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 relies on its internal subwoofer, while the 900 has an optional separate bass module (the Bose Bass Module 900) that can be purchased separately. This added bass module provides even deeper, more rumbling lows that enhance the overall listening experience.
Additional Audio Features
Both soundbars feature a range of additional audio features that enhance their performance. These include:
- Wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Support for popular audio formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and 4K HDR
- Bose’s proprietary SimpleSync technology, which allows for seamless connectivity with other Bose smart speakers
- A range of preset sound modes, including Dialogue, Night, and Music
However, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 takes it a step further with additional features like:
- Bose’s proprietary Room Calibration technology, which helps to optimize sound performance based on your room’s unique acoustics
- Support for eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel), which provides a more seamless connection to your TV
- A more advanced dialogue enhancement feature, which helps to clarify and enhance dialogue in movies and TV shows
Smart Features and Connectivity
When it comes to smart features and connectivity, both soundbars offer a range of options. These include:
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for wireless music streaming
- Support for popular music services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music
- Integration with smart home systems like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
- HDMI inputs with 4K and HDR passthrough
However, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 takes it a step further with additional features like:
- Built-in Chromecast, which allows for seamless music streaming from your phone or tablet
- Support for Apple AirPlay 2, which provides a more seamless connection to your Apple devices
- A more advanced Bose Music app, which allows for more intuitive control and customization of your soundbar
Setup and Installation
Setting up and installing your soundbar can often be a daunting task. However, both the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900 make it relatively easy.
The Bose Smart Soundbar 700 comes with a simple setup process that involves connecting it to your TV via HDMI and downloading the Bose Music app. From there, you can customize your soundbar’s settings and connect to your favorite music services.
The Bose Smart Soundbar 900, on the other hand, requires a slightly more involved setup process. This includes connecting it to your TV via HDMI, setting up the optional bass module, and calibrating the soundbar using Bose’s ADAPTiQ technology. However, the end result is well worth the extra effort, with a more customized and immersive audio experience.
Pricing and Value
When it comes to pricing, the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900 are positioned at different points in the market.
The Bose Smart Soundbar 700 typically retails for around $700-$800, making it a more affordable option for those looking for a high-quality soundbar.
The Bose Smart Soundbar 900, on the other hand, typically retails for around $1,200-$1,500, making it a more premium option for those looking for a top-of-the-line soundbar experience.
While the 900 is certainly more expensive, it offers a range of advanced features and technologies that make it well worth the extra cost. If budget is a concern, the 700 is still a great option, but if you’re looking for the best of the best, the 900 is the way to go.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900 are two exceptional soundbars that cater to different needs and budgets. While the 700 offers a more affordable option with exceptional sound quality, the 900 takes it to the next level with advanced features like a separate bass module, improved voice assistant integration, and more advanced audio processing.
Ultimately, the choice between the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900 comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a more affordable option with exceptional sound quality, the 700 is a great choice. However, if you’re willing to invest in a more premium soundbar experience with advanced features and technologies, the 900 is the way to go.
What are the main differences between the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900?
The Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900 are both high-end soundbars from Bose, but they have distinct differences in terms of design, features, and performance. The Soundbar 700 is a more compact and sleek option that is suitable for smaller to medium-sized rooms, while the Soundbar 900 is a more advanced and powerful option designed for larger spaces. Additionally, the Soundbar 900 has more advanced features such as a more comprehensive Wi-Fi connectivity and support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio formats.
In terms of sound quality, both soundbars deliver exceptional performance, but the Soundbar 900 has a more detailed and immersive soundstage, thanks to its additional speakers and more advanced drivers. The Soundbar 700, on the other hand, is more portable and has a more compact design, making it easier to place in smaller spaces.
Does the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio formats?
No, the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 does not support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio formats. This is one of the main differences between the Soundbar 700 and 900, as the Soundbar 900 supports both of these advanced audio formats, providing a more immersive and engaging audio experience.
However, the Soundbar 700 still delivers exceptional sound quality with clear and detailed highs, rich bass, and excellent dialogue clarity. It’s a great option for those who want a high-quality soundbar without the extra features and advanced audio formats.
Can I connect multiple devices to the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900?
Yes, both the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900 have multiple connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and Bluetooth, which allow you to connect multiple devices such as a TV, DVD player, gaming console, or smartphone. Additionally, both soundbars have Wi-Fi connectivity, which enables wireless connectivity to other devices and streaming services.
You can connect up to three devices via HDMI on both soundbars, and they also support wireless pairing with other Bose speakers and soundbars. This allows you to create a whole-home audio system and enjoy seamless multi-room audio streaming.
Does the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900 have built-in voice assistants?
Yes, both the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900 come with built-in voice assistants, including Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This allows you to control the soundbar with voice commands, adjust the volume, play music, and access other smart features.
You can also use the Bose Music app to control the soundbar, access streaming services, and customize settings. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices and provides a seamless and intuitive user experience.
Is the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900 compatible with other Bose speakers?
Yes, both the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900 are compatible with other Bose speakers and soundbars, allowing you to create a whole-home audio system. You can wirelessly connect other Bose speakers to the soundbar and enjoy seamless multi-room audio streaming.
This feature is particularly useful if you have multiple Bose speakers or soundbars in different rooms and want to create a cohesive audio experience throughout your home. You can control multiple speakers and soundbars using the Bose Music app, making it easy to adjust volume, play music, and access other features.
Do the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900 have a built-in subwoofer?
No, neither the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 nor 900 has a built-in subwoofer. However, both soundbars are compatible with the Bose Bass Module, which is a separate subwoofer that can be connected wirelessly to the soundbar.
The Bass Module provides deeper bass and enhances the overall audio experience, particularly in larger rooms. It’s a great option if you want to add extra bass to your home theater setup without the hassle of cables.
Can I mount the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900 to the wall?
Yes, both the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 and 900 can be mounted to the wall using the optional Bose WB-120 wall bracket. This bracket is specifically designed for the soundbars and provides a secure and stylish way to mount them to the wall.
Mounting the soundbar to the wall helps to save space, improve sound quality, and reduce clutter. The WB-120 wall bracket is easy to install and provides a sleek and minimalist design that complements the soundbar’s aesthetic.